The Flower and The Serpent is a young adult dark mystery with elements of horror. The story focuses on a group of teens who are about to put on a production of Macbeth. The production is being led by an ambitious teacher, Mr. Ravenswood, and the lead role of Lady Macbeth is being eyed by the young and also ambitious Violet. Violet, however, does not get the part. She does not even get the role of understudy. Instead, she is cast as one of the Three Witches. But now Violet will do whatever it takes to be the star of the show.

The "curse" surrounding Macbeth is at full force in this book. Ominous, dark, and creepy things seem to surround this renowned Shakespearean play. But just what is going on? Is Violet a dangerous psycho? Are there spirits haunting the play? Or does the the land on which the high school, Beacon Hill High, have its own story and dark, disturbing past that is coming forward?

This book is told via multiple perspectives and it is always clear what POV we are experiencing the story. There are two "unknown" POVs, though. Someone is writing to a journal. Who? And someone, or some THING, is calling itself the darkness. As the story unfolds we get answers behind these mysterious POVs. I was confused at first, but it all made sense in the end.

I enjoyed this story and the petty rivalry between classmates. I loved the history and the supernatural aspect involved. I will be reading more from Madeleine D'Este! 3.5 stars!